The newly appointed Customs Area Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun II Area Command, Deputy Comptroller Dennis Ituma, has pledged to prioritise discipline, professionalism, accountability and operational excellence during his administration.
Ituma made the commitment on Wednesday in Abeokuta while addressing officers and personnel at his maiden parade, where he presented his leadership vision, expectations and strategic priorities.
He warned that indiscipline, negligence and misconduct would not be tolerated, noting that such behaviour could damage the reputation of the Nigeria Customs Service.
Officers Warned Against Misconduct and Negligence
The Controller said discipline would be expected from every officer, regardless of rank or position, adding that the Command’s effectiveness would depend on personnel’s commitment to their statutory responsibilities.
He explained that discipline should extend beyond following instructions to include punctuality, appropriate dressing, personal appearance, respect for constituted authority, obedience to lawful directives and dedication to assigned duties.
“Discipline is the bedrock of every successful organisation, particularly a paramilitary institution such as the Nigeria Customs Service. It must be reflected in our appearance, punctuality, comportment, respect for constituted authority, obedience to lawful instructions and commitment to assigned responsibilities,” he said.
Ituma further urged officers to demonstrate professionalism in their daily activities by maintaining neatness, respecting colleagues and complying with Service rules and regulations.
He clarified that his emphasis on discipline was not intended to intimidate personnel but to strengthen institutional order, improve productivity and encourage responsible conduct.
New Awards to Recognise Outstanding Officers
As part of efforts to motivate personnel and promote healthy competition, Ituma announced the introduction of the Controller’s Award for Outstanding Officers in the Ogun II Area Command.
The initiative will recognise officers who demonstrate exceptional commitment, professionalism and strong performance in their respective duties.
The award categories include Outstanding Officer in Trade Facilitation, Outstanding Officer in Revenue Generation, Neatest Officer and Most Disciplined Officer.
According to the Controller, the programme is intended to promote merit-based recognition, encourage exemplary conduct and improve service delivery across the Command.
He said a committee would be established to oversee the process and recommend appropriate assessment criteria to ensure fairness and credibility in selecting recipients.
Revenue Generation and Trade Facilitation Remain Priorities
Ituma also called on personnel to renew their commitment to the core responsibilities of the Nigeria Customs Service.
He identified revenue generation, legitimate trade facilitation, enforcement and effective monitoring of operational areas as key areas requiring attention.
The Controller stressed that every officer had a responsibility to contribute to the Command’s objectives, regardless of their position or rank.
Training and Professional Development to Receive Attention
The new Area Controller identified continuous training and professional development as important components of his administration.
He disclosed that plans would be made for in-house training programmes, with particular attention to Excise Procedures and Free Trade Zone Procedures.
Ituma said leadership should be demonstrated at every level through integrity, accountability, responsibility and dedication to official duties.
He also acknowledged the efforts and sacrifices of officers serving in the Command and urged them to maintain their commitment and cooperate with the new administration.
Ogun II Command’s Role in Customs Operations
The Nigeria Customs Service is responsible for collecting import duties and other levies, facilitating legitimate trade and enforcing laws against smuggling and the importation of prohibited goods.
The agency is also one of the Federal Government’s major revenue-generating institutions, with its area commands headed by Customs Area Controllers who are periodically redeployed.
Ogun State occupies an important position in Customs operations because of its proximity to Lagos and its land borders with the Republic of Benin.
The state’s Ogun I and Ogun II commands operate within a corridor associated with significant cross-border trade and smuggling activities involving items such as foreign rice, vehicles and petroleum products.
